Description of the summit of Mt Erebus from an ascent: temperature profiles, topography features and collected soil, lichen and snow and sulphur samples

An ascent of Mt Erebus was made to the southwest crater rim to collect snow and sulphur samples and to observe the summits volcanic activity. On the ascent, temperature profiles were establish. Temperature and pressure values were recorded at Scott Base during the same time periods for comparison. The general features of the summit were described and volcanic activity was assessed. On the descent, lichen and soil samples were taken and 40lb of snow samples were collected at 5,500ft for analysis of sulphur fallout. A helicopter flight allowed large photographic coverage of the crater and environment, the identity and origin of the ice towers and the summit topography to be observed.